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Your dog is probably an intrinsic part of your family, so it's understandable you'll want to bring it along when you travel. However, traveling with a dog can be difficult if you're not well prepared. Paperwork varies widely between countries, so don't assume you know what you need until you've consulted the local Embassy. When in doubt, get additional paperwork. Better to be "overprepared" than short on paperwork.

Traveling Within the US

If you're traveling within the continental US, you won't need a lot of paperwork. To get your dog into a flight, you will need to show a certificate of health and proof of rabies vaccination. Some airlines might have additional requirements, such as proof that the dog has been dewormed or given tick and flea medication. Always call the airline in advance to find out about specific requirements. Most trains and buses don't allow animals. Those that do usually have slightly laxer rules than those of airlines.

Traveling Internationally

To bring your dog across the border, you'll need additional paperwork. What type of paperwork depends on your country of destination. If your dog is going on an international flight, you will need an international health certificate, also known as an "Interstate & International Certificate of Health Examination for Small Animals." Not all veterinarians have the necessary government approval to sign this type of certificate, so you will need to confirm in advance. Some countries require an additional stamp of approval on the certificate. You can obtain this stamp from the United States Department of Agriculture. Certificates usually have an expiration date --Some countries require that the certificate is no more than three days old. Aside from rabies vaccination, some countries require vaccines against leptospirosis or hepatitis.

Special European Regulations

Certain European countries have special regulations for dogs coming in. Britain, Sweden and Norway have been rabies-free for years, so they have strict rules for importing animals into the country. Dogs need to pass a blood test after receiving their rabies vaccine. You need to ask for this test at least six months before traveling. Only certain approved laboratories can do it. The dog also needs tick and tapeworm treatment and must be microchipped. If you don't comply with these requirements, the dog will be placed in quarantine for up to six months.

Safety Tips

To keep your dog safe while traveling, you'll need to comply with certain regulations. For flying, you'll need an airline-approved carrier big enough for your dog to stand, turn around and lie in. Certain airlines won't allow dogs during very hot or very cold weather. Even if the airline doesn't require it, fit your dog's collar with an ID tag; athough chances are small that your dog will get loose, a tag can be a lifesaver if he does. If you're traveling by car, practice taking your dog on shorter trips first. Some dogs get motion sickness when they're in a car for a long time. Ask your vet about Dramamine (dimenhydrinate) or some other anti-motion sickness medication to help ease your dog's discomfort.

About the Author

Tammy Dray has been writing since 1996. She specializes in health, wellness and travel topics and has credits in various publications including Woman's Day, Marie Claire, Adirondack Life and Self. She is also a seasoned independent traveler and a certified personal trainer and nutrition consultant. Dray is pursuing a criminal justice degree at Penn Foster College.